Queen’s Park Update, March 4, 2022 – by Jim McDonell MPP

With key public health and medical care indicators continuing to improve, I believe we can look forward to a much more normal spring, especially after lifting capacity limits in all indoor public settings this past Tuesday. With proof of vaccination requirements lifted for most indoor settings, businesses are free to carry on with the QR code as they see best to protect staff and clients. Our medical expert team is monitoring data, and the Government expects to announce a specific timeline in the coming weeks to phase out masking. We encourage people to get fully vaccinated, with appointments available through the provincial booking system and at select pharmacies. 

Ensuring that residents have access to a safe food supply has been a vital pandemic task for everyone in the agri-food sector. As challenges arose, the Government collaborated with industry leaders and agencies to invest in programs and measures to address processing capacity, safe workplaces, innovations, and enhanced research support. On Tuesday, Minister Lisa Thompson and I were amongst government officials who took part in the Ontario Food Summit discussions to ensure our food supply is one of the strongest, safest, and most stable in the world. More than 150 stakeholders joined in to give up-to-date feedback on strengthening and expanding the food sector. With this input, the ministry will work to develop strategies that will ensure Ontario’s agri-food sector will grow as it meets new challenges, not only to safeguard our food but to spur economic development and create jobs.  

Rapidly evolving technology and innovation are driving changes in our economy and the services people use daily. Last week, we introduced the Working for Workers Act to lead the country in building a more robust economy that works for everyone. The proposed changes will make Ontario the first province in Canada to establish a minimum wage and other foundational rights for digital platform workers who offer rides or deliver food and other items for companies such as Uber, Door Dash, and Instacart. As many as one in five Canadians work in the “gig” economy, which is predicted to increase. However, these workers often face uncertain working conditions and lack necessary protections, including finding it difficult to predict paycheques or resolve complaints. Bill 88 will also require employers of more than 25 workers to develop a policy for workers when using electronic monitoring. As part of our plan to build a stronger economy that works for everyone, we want all workers to have every opportunity to earn a good living and provide for their families. 

Over the last week, I became aware of concerns expressed over planned renovations at Cumberland Gardens in the city. I was happy to provide information on legislation that our Government passed to protect tenants and landlords in this vital housing sector. First, every tenant must be aware that terminating a tenancy requires an order from the Landlord and Tenant Board (LTB). Every tenant facing eviction has the right to a hearing at the Landlord and Tenant Board. A tenant does not need to move out unless and until an adjudicator issues an eviction order. Tenants also have the right to move back into the unit when the repairs or renovations are done. To do this, the tenant must give the landlord notice in writing before vacating the rental unit and inform the landlord of any address change. Tenants should seek legal advice before signing any documents, including the N9 form, as it is typically signed when a tenant wants to terminate their tenancy and vacate the rental unit. The act also increases fines for landlords who break the law. 

Stay safe.  

Jim McDonell,

MPP for Stormont-Dundas-South Glengarry

www.jimmcdonellmpp.ca

613-933-6513